Introducing our Keto Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer (Diabetic Friendly) recipe, the perfect solution for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional chicken nuggets.
If you're following a low-carb keto diet or have diabetes, you can still enjoy the satisfying taste of air fryer chicken bites without worrying about added carbs and sugar.
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The key to good keto chicken nuggets is the breading on the outside. It must be crispy, salty and well, believe it or not, it needs to be a little greasy.
We all know what I'm talking about. Nobody wants a dried-up nugget that is lightly breaded and rubbery.
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Why you'll love this Air Fryer Keto Chicken Nugget recipe
- It's a healthier alternative: This recipe offers a low-carb and keto-friendly twist to traditional chicken nuggets, making it a healthier option.
- Diabetic-friendly: The recipe is designed with diabetics in mind, so you can enjoy the delicious taste of chicken nuggets without worrying about your blood sugar levels spiking.
- Quick and easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can create crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken bites in no time.
- Great for meal prep: These nuggets are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
- Delicious and satisfying: Despite being a healthier alternative, this recipe does not compromise on taste or flavor. These chicken nuggets are crispy, flavorful, and sure to satisfy your cravings.
Main ingredients used
With just a handful of simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can create crispy and flavorful chicken nuggets that are sure to impress.
- Pork Rind Crumbs: toasted and golden we use pork rind crumbs for a big crunchy outer exterior.
- Chicken Breast: we used boneless skinless chicken cut into nuggets, tender white chicken cubes are soaked in a pickle juice marinade for extra flavor.
- Almond Flour: we add another layer of coating to these keto air fryer chicken nuggets.
- Parmesan Crisps: we said we wanted crunchy chicken nuggets, we weren't kidding, we use these Parmesan Crisps.
- Paprika, garlic powder, salt, unsalted butter, eggs
See the recipe card for a full list of ingredients and quantities.
Recipe Card
Keto Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer (Diabetic Friendly)
RECIPE VIDEO
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Breast cut into 1-2" Cubes
- 1 Cup Pickle Juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 Cups Pork Rind Crumbs
- ½ Cup Parmesan Crisp Crumbs optional
- 1 Cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 Large Eggs
- Use my Breadcrumb recipe instead of pork rinds
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F
- Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and marinate in pickle juice for at least 4 hours.1 lb Chicken Breast, 1 Cup Pickle Juice
- After 4 hours (or longer) drain the chicken and pat dry.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to a medium pan on medium heat until melted.1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Add pork rind and parmesan crumbs to the frying pan and toast until golden brown2 Cups Pork Rind Crumbs, ½ Cup Parmesan Crisp Crumbs
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- In a medium-sized bowl add the almond flour and the seasonings. In another medium bowl add the 2 eggs and beat them, then in another medium bowl add the pork rind and parm crumb mixture.Dredge the chicken pieces in the seasoned almond flour, then dip it into the two beaten eggs and then crust the chicken with the pork rind and parmesan crumbs.1 Cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 Large Eggs
- Transfer the nuggets to the air fryer basket that has been sprayed with cooking spray, you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray. (See additional notes below)
- Air fry them at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping halfway. You will know when they are done when the internal temperature of chicken nuggets is at least 165° F.
- Remove them from the air fryer basket and allow them to slightly cool before serving. Serve with your favorite dip like a chipotle ranch.
- (See the video instructions if further clarification is needed)
Important Information
For more information, tips and variations please review the recipe video and content above and below the recipe card.
Updates and Revisions
If the video and recipe card differ, follow the recipe card for the latest ingredients and instructions.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition info is estimated and varies by ingredients, measurements, and portions.
Nutrition
Steps by step instructions
How to make keto chicken nuggets in the air fryer?
STEP 1: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-2" cubes and marinade them in a container with 1 cup of pickle juice for about 4 hours.
STEP 2: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to a medium-sized frying pan on medium heat. Then add 2 cups of pork rind crumbs and ½ Cup of Parm Crisp crumbs and gently stir until crispy and golden.If you can't find pork rind crumbs simply use pork rinds and spin them in a blender or food processor until crumbs form.
STEP 3: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
In a medium-sized bowl add the almond flour and the seasonings. In another medium bowl add the 2 eggs and beat them, then in another medium bowl add the pork rind and parm crumb mixture.
Dredge the chicken pieces in the seasoned almond flour, then dip it into the two beaten eggs and then crust the chicken with the pork rind and parmesan crumbs.
STEP 4: Transfer the nuggets to the air fryer basket that has been sprayed with cooking spray or brush the basket with olive oil, you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray.
- Air fry them at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping halfway. You will know when they are done when the internal temperature of chicken nuggets is at least 165° F.
Remove them from the air fryer basket and allow them to slightly cool before serving. Serve with your favorite dip like a chipotle ranch.
How to make keto chicken nuggets in the oven?
Follow the steps above to bread the chicken then place each coated chicken nugget onto a greased baking rack over a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until nuggets are crisp and golden brown.
Once the chicken comes out of the oven allow it to slightly cool to avoid burning your mouth.
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How to store chicken nuggets
To store your keto chicken nuggets, follow these steps:
- Allow the chicken nuggets to cool completely after air frying.
- Once cooled, place the chicken nuggets in an airtight container or ziplock bag.
- Store the chicken nuggets in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- When you're ready to eat the chicken nuggets, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again.
Note: If you want to freeze the chicken nuggets for longer storage, you can do so by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing for a few hours until they are solid.
Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or ziplock bag and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to eat them, reheat them in the air fryer until they are warmed through and crispy.
Recipe tips
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheating your air fryer before cooking the chicken nuggets will help them cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: To ensure the chicken nuggets cook evenly and get crispy, make sure to space them out in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and the chicken nuggets may not get as crispy. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Bonus tip: To add more variety to the flavor of the chicken nuggets, you can experiment with different seasonings or dipping sauces. Try adding some chili powder or Italian seasoning to the almond flour mixture for added flavor.
Recipe variations
There are many keto chicken nugget air fryer recipe variations you can try to make keto chicken nuggets in the air fryer. Here are a few ideas:
- Parmesan-crusted chicken nuggets: Instead of coating the chicken in pork rind crumbs, mix together almond flour, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Dip the chicken in beaten egg and then coat in the parmesan mixture before air frying.
- Spicy chicken nuggets: Add some heat to your keto air fryer chicken nuggets by mixing together almond flour, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dip the chicken in beaten egg and then coat in the spicy mixture before air frying.
- Coconut-crusted chicken nuggets: For a tropical twist, use shredded coconut instead of almond flour to coat the chicken. Dip the chicken in beaten egg and then coat in the shredded coconut before air frying.
- Bacon-wrapped chicken nuggets: Instead of breading, wrap each chicken nugget in a slice of bacon before air frying for a delicious and savory twist.
- Pesto chicken nuggets: Mix together almond flour, grated parmesan cheese, and a few tablespoons of pesto sauce. Dip the chicken in beaten egg and then coat in the pesto mixture before air frying.
These are just a few examples of recipe variations you can try. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and coatings to find your perfect keto chicken nugget recipe.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that chicken thighs have more fat than chicken breasts, so the nutritional information will be different.
Yes, you can make the chicken nuggets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer as described above.
Yes, these chicken nuggets are gluten-free as long as you use almond flour or another gluten-free flour as a coating.
While these keto chicken nuggets are low in carbs and can be a good option for people on a low-carb diet, everyone's body reacts differently to different foods. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your blood sugar levels.
Food safety
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooked food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more food guidelines
Jere Cassidy says
Using the toasted pork rinds is just a genius hack for flavor and crispiness. Can't wait to make these for the family.
Natalie says
A brilliant idea to add pork rind crumbs. I bought them for my husband, he's on the keto diet. I bet he's gonna love these chicken nuggets too. Another amazing recipe from you. Thanks 🙂
Lilly says
I would've never thought to use toasted pork rind crumbs in the crust! It was so good! Thanks for the recipe!
Jere Cassidy says
So interesting use pork rind crumbs, that is brilliant for flavor and crunch.
Amber says
This recipe was everything I thought it would be and so much more! I’ve made pork rind crusted chicken before, but it usually turned out rubbery and unappealing. These nuggets were crispy and delicious. And marinating it in pickle juice? Chef’s kiss! Well done Oscar!
ihackeddiabetes says
Thank you Amber.